Helmut Marko recently spoke about Max Verstappen‘s ‘community service’ penalty from the FIA for using a swear word at a press conference in Singapore. He thinks the punishment was unfair and hopes for more understanding in the future.
Marko, who is 81, feels that the FIA overreacted since the swear word is commonly used. Max responded by giving very short answers at another press conference to show his disagreement.
“I thought Max’s reaction was very good,” Marko praised. “You have to allow emotions. Formula 1 is full of emotions, and drivers express them based on their temperament.”
Comparison to Gunther Steiner
Marko compared this situation to how Gunther Steiner, known for swearing, faced no consequences during his time in F1. Fans might think it’s strange that Steiner got away with it while Verstappen didn’t. “The whole thing is clearly exaggerated and ridiculous,” Marko said, acknowledging that teams have different priorities.
Less Swearing and Cursing
Marko finds FIA president Mohamed Ben Sulayem’s suggestion to reduce cursing a bit silly. He agrees with Verstappen that racing should be fun and not bogged down by too many rules.
“It [too many rules] should not take away the drivers’ enjoyment. Max wants to have fun in the sport he practices,” Marko added.
What do you think about all these rules?